
ARTIST'S STATEMENT
The photographs speak for themselves. Just open your eyes and listen.
-Terry Johnston
PROFESSIONAL STATEMENT
Currently, I am the photographer for the Grand Rapids Downtown Alliance. The UICA (Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts) has hired me for various photography projects and I have created CD covers for many musicians including former Sony recording artist Casey Stratton. I have also done photographic work for Starbucks Coffee, and am a stock photographer for Getty Images.
My photographs have been featured in Grand Rapids Magazine, Revue Magazine, among others and I have produced many photographs for the Super Happy Funtime Burlesque troupe.
Internationally known photographer Scott Kelby chose me to represent Grand Rapids in a worldwide photo contest in 2008. In May 2005, I co-founded Grand Rapids flickr with the help of Katie Weller.
CAMERAs
Canon EOS 5D Mark II
GLASS
Lensbaby Composer
Canon EF 15mm f/2.8 Fisheye
Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8L II USM
Canon EF 24mm f/1.4L II USM
Canon EF 35mm F1.4L USM
Canon EF 50mm f/1.2L USM
Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8L USM
Canon EF 85mm f/1.2L II USM
Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L IS USM
Canon EF 135mm f/2.0L USM
Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM
SOFTWARE
OSX 10.5x
Aperture 2
Photoshop CS3/Lightroom
COMPUTER
2.4Ghz - Core 2 Duo Black MacBook
2.8Ghz Core 2 Extreme 24" iMac
Photos of powerbooktrance (87)
powerbooktrance's favorite photos from other Flickr members (20,731)
Contacts (203)
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areacode
Jonathan Condit
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D G H
No real name given
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kommandantde
No real name given
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Sam Attal
Sam Attal
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GR DDA
Jay Fowler
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jczeranna
Jon Czeranna
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wardgegr
George Ward
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photofrenzy2000
No real name given
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drew*in*chicago
Drew "Eat's Pie for...
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thegrocer*
No real name given
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Atila
atila
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redjoe
Joe Horvath
Groups (50)
- Artist Goons 442 photos, 79 members
- Grand Rapids Comic Relief 41 photos, 31 members
- Grand Rapids Marathon 2009 1044 photos, 30 members
- Grand Rapids Black & White 327 photos, 51 members
- Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L IS USM Macro 828 photos, 136 members
- 24L II (Canon EF 24mm f/1.4L Mk II USM) 1030 photos, 215 members
- ACTIVESITE 329 photos, 23 members
- GR Flickr Slideshow 326 photos, 74 members
- Grand Rapids ArtPrize Promotion 2103 photos, 45 members
- The Rapidian 1164 photos, 71 members
- Canon EOS 5D Mark II 2 Users 19031 photos, 990 members
- Landmark landscape - Everything (Must be) Architectural 2114 photos, 485 members
- Canon 5D Mark II and Canon 85mm f/1.2L II lens only 712 photos, 72 members
- Canon 85mm f/1.2 L Open 1155 photos, 159 members
- Canon EF 85mm f/1.2L (II) USM 2045 photos, 461 members
- Wide-Angle Bokeh 2078 photos, 329 members
- Scott Kelby’s Worldwide Photo Walk: Grand Rapids 2009 193 photos, 16 members
- Happy Blurry Shit In The Background Wednesday 1185 photos, 380 members
- Gary, Indiana 2304 photos, 93 members
- Indiana Decay 457 photos, 33 members
- Abandoned 282405 photos, 21589 members
- Art of Urbex 15118 photos, 744 members
- Urbex :: Urban Exploration 73305 photos, 4827 members
- Blue Hue 57074 photos, 4907 members
- Canon EF 16-35/2.8L II USM 7803 photos, 932 members
- Canon EOS 5D Mark II 7914 photos, 321 members
- Canon EOS-5D Mark II 9487 photos, 642 members
- Canon 5D mark II with L lenses 7558 photos, 376 members
- Canon EOS 5D Mark II. 75815 photos, 5727 members
- Ferris State Photographers 154 photos, 19 members
- Toilets for Terry 124 photos, 75 members
- MadCap Coffee 566 photos, 40 members
- Random & Creative shots 111248 photos, 7931 members
- Photographers of West Michigan 7102 photos, 243 members
- Canon EF 135mm f2 L 6659 photos, 655 members
- Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8 L (IS) USM 32318 photos, 3593 members
- Gay Male Photographers 22764 photos, 1921 members
- ArtPrize Grand Rapids 6150 photos, 350 members
- Lensbaby B&W 1464 photos, 282 members
- photocoyote 65 photos, 49 members
- Lensbabies 20790 photos, 3043 members
- Lensbaby Composer 4949 photos, 619 members
- «paint it with blur» 3668 photos, 2050 members
- Lansing 3372 photos, 229 members
- Toys in Close-up 2062 photos, 211 members
- Tattoo Gallery 2009 4932 photos, 1537 members
- The Art of Tattooing...(rules-R-followed) 6868 photos, 1915 members
- My Bikes Cooler than your Bike (Bicycle) 530 photos, 69 members
- Fliquor 219 photos, 51 members
- Car Bokeh 842 photos, 145 members
Testimonials (48)
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Matt Burrows says:
"As somebody who has taught creative writing and speech, I always grapple with the fact that those who excel in these areas often have that "something special" that can't be taught--they either have it or they don't. Well, when it comes to photography, Terry has it. And he has it in spades.
Regardless if it's people, buildings, the most mundane objects, or the most run-down decayed subjects possible, he makes them appear beautiful and interesting--he gives them meaning.
And, along with his uncanny ability to take amazing photographs, he also exudes a humbleness and kindness that many of his level do not. Simply put, Terry is the real deal. He is not only an inspiration, but a source of encouragement. He's not only helped me become a better, more confident photographer, but continues to help. And for that I am extremely grateful."8th November, 2009
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yodraws says:
"Terry is the lifeblood of the Grand Rapids Flickr Group. In the last few years, I've been impressed by his wit, style and overwhelming willingness to help others. Thanks for inspiring us all, Terry."
23rd October, 2009
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drew*in*chicago says:
"Terry and I are alot alike. Our passion for coffee, photography and the underground subculture of America, make us connect in so many ways. His photographs are like lickable wallpaper.Textured and layered and always the most palatable."
9th October, 2009
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chateauglenunga (Harvey) says:
"He has a nice photostream.
Anyone notice the understatement inherent in this . . . .
10/10 quality 24/7"20th May, 2009
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xxxrmt says:
"The perfect mix of know how and artistry... Delicious lighting, interesting subjects, fabulous portraits and always beautiful results.
Am hooked."2nd March, 2009
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p2wy says:
"Yeah, flat-out awesome is what Terry is. One of the most fun photostreams on Flickr!"
4th February, 2009
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gtown eric (Eric W. Hodel) says:
"Terryland: A place where nothing is off limits. Perspectives and processes have evolved. A diverse landscape exists here.
He inspires me to work harder and to try the shots I wouldn't have before. Who else could shoot muscle cars one day and burlesque the next and pull them both off so well?!
His sense of humor and witty remarks are ever welcome, always sure to bring a smile (and sometimes a blush!).
Thanks Terry and keep up the good work."22nd October, 2008
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im_alex says:
"I have only met Terry through Flickr but can see his awesome personality through his work. Always excited to login to Flickr and see what he's posted from his GR Flickrwalks and other work. Awesome photographer."
26th September, 2008
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Jonathan Clay says:
"Terry is a talented photographer, a pleasant person to be around, and is always encouraging. He's helped me out more than he knows. I'm happy to consider him a friend and fortunate to have his knowledge and creativity to learn from."
24th September, 2008
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chad℠ says:
"My oldest flickr friend; truly a friend, even more so outside of this flickr world now. I wouldn't still be on this site, and I wouldn't know all of these great grand rapids photographers if it weren't for terry and his leadership. Always shows up with a smile on his face and a camera in his hand. Even if every photography was outlawed tomarrow, I would still call terry up and bug him to hang out at the coffee shop.
Thanks for being here terry."6th August, 2008
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tastygiant says:
"this guy is a badass. his skills are scary. his style, enveloping and inspiring. one of my favorite photographers on flickr, period."
27th June, 2008
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photocoyote says:
"Welcome in Terrylandia, where everything's cool... where you can find PURE JOY. Amazing shots. Fabulous colors. Dope perspectives. Genial details. Terry's photowork is totally crazy! Meeting Terry was one of the best things that happened to me coming in Flickrland. Hey GR-Kiddo thanx a lot for sharing your SPLENDID visions! And remember... ROCK'N'ROLL!!!"
23rd June, 2008
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Mason Galindo says:
"Terry’s photos speak for themselves and it goes without saying what a talented photographer he is. Instead, my testimonial attests to the kind of person Terry is.
In the short time that I’ve known him, I’ve come to learn that he is a genuine person who really understands the value of friendship. Generally I would prefer not to testify to someone’s character so readily but in Terry’s case I feel comfortable making an exception. After having several opportunities to get to know him and see how he interacts with his peers, it’s become clear that my opinion of him is one I can be confident will hold up.
His words of encouragement on my photos and the information he has so willingly shared with me about photography during our walks are in large part why I’ve become so attracted to taking photos and using Flickr. Terry is an asset to the Flickr community and an inspiration to those fortunate enough to know him.
Oh, and he can bust one hell of a tilt and make just about any fire hydrant look drop dead sexy."25th May, 2008
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sally_monster says:
"Terry's so good there should probably be a law against him. I know for a fact I'm addicted. Hang around for just a little while and you'll suffer the same sweet fate."
19th April, 2008
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rob_fuel says:
"Terry is what I think flickr should be. He's a constant source of encouragement and inspiration to me. I admire his curiosity, always looking for a new angle and a fresh perspective. His friendliness is off the charts and I can't thank him enough for allowing me to get to know him, even if it is just on the interweb. And I've said it before, but it bears repeating: Terry is the queen of post production."
11th April, 2008
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GR58 says:
"From his amazing photos, to his ability to make something so simple look so amazing, from his kind words on my photos, to his comment back on every comment made on his photos, I respect Terry as a great photographer, person and friend. Its a honor to know you Terry. From your great sense of humor, to the great photowalks you set up, Flickr GR is something special, and you have so much to do with that. Thank you Terry...you are a rock star!"
23rd March, 2008
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TawneeLynne(challenged again) says:
"Terry is style and sass and beauty and kindness all slipped into one passionately charged man. His smile will reach all ends of the earth, and warm hearts... his attitude will command multitudes to feel good and dance... his friendship will energize and inspire even the most introverted of humans. My life is better just because I get to watch him fly.. he is so sexy when he flies.
giggle
edit..
did I mention his Nightscapes r0k!!!!... you need to check this true artist out"6th March, 2008
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Mac Girl says:
"This man, this coffee buddy, this Flickr peep of mine, I admire the hell out of his work. He brings something fresh to every single shot that he takes. Coffee cups, Dunnys, and urinals feature heavily because he has a passion for them, and every photo shows that passion. But over the past couple of years he has developed a gritty, edgy, bokeh-licious style all his own and he brings it to every photo that he takes, no matter what the subject. I'm proud to call him my friend."
23rd February, 2008
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pairadocs says:
"Where do I start... and what can I say about Terry that hasn't already been said?
I think Josh Groban said it best when he said "There's no half-singing in the shower, you're either a rock star or an opera diva." I'm not kidding... he really said that. Terry is both a rock star and an opera diva... his photo skills are on a rock-n-roll, superstar level, and they make me want to be a better photographer every time I look at them. His singing is, well... just don't ever ask him to sing... but the diva part still fits...
Terry is my partner in crime on location, and when we're not out getting nabbed by the cops and getting added to Homeland Security databases, "finding open doors" into vacant buildings, or freezing our asses off near bodies of water in the middle of Michigan winters, we can still hang out and just talk over coffee. If it wasn't for Terry, I can honestly say I would be nowhere near as interested in photography as I am today. I only dabbled in it before, but just hanging out with Terry has sparked a whole new level of interest and love for this art form. Terry was one of my first Flickr contacts, and quickly became a great friend.
Just look at his photos and you'll see a great artistic mind with a visionary drive and a passion for originality like no other. Original angles, the knack for making the most mundane objects into works of art, and killer processing... all part of the formula that defines the art of Terryland. Rock star!"18th February, 2008
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.fenster. says:
"What can I say? Terry isn’t just a super nice and funny guy, he’s also a fantastic photo maker. I’ve learned a lot from Terry and his work. I’m glad he’s one of my BFFs (Best Flickr Friends)! Keep it comin’ Bro! Hugs - Christopher"
11th February, 2008
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thoth037 says:
"As I go through the list of testimonials, I try not to repeat the many things people say about Terry ("he's a stalker", "won't go away", "is that really a Apple tattoo?") so I'm going to try something different and be nice!
All kidding aside, Terry is obviously one of the most talented people on Flickr, and one of the more creative photographers I've come across. Not only does he venture outside of the typical safezone (risking arrest to get a shot is a sure sign of a serious photographer!) but he also thinks outside the box and gives us these amazing photos with this uncanny ability to control light in just the right way! Definitely put him on the top of your list of contacts so you can see his new daily photos!
Oh, and the fact that he's a coffee-drinking, mac-loving, graffiti-chasing, warehouse-entering photo-freak just makes him all the more unique! :D"7th February, 2008
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DodogoeSLR says:
"Terry's an amazing photographer who's photos have really pushed me to become a better photographer! Anyone reading this should definately take the time to go through his flickr pages. They are, to say the least, very impressive.
Terry started this amazing group called Macro Mondays and has seriously given me the push to take my pictures to the next level. I have no idea when and how I first ran into powerbooktrance on Flickr, but i'm glad i did."4th February, 2008
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Michael Mitchener says:
"Terry has greatly added to my flickr experience and development as a photographer. His feedback, inspiration, sense of humour and predictable unpredictability never cease to impress and amaze me. Terry has made a difference in my own confidence and willingness to experiment with a camera through his early support and ongoing encouragement and I can't believe I've never taken the time to write him a testimonial. Thank you Terry. I count you as a friend and I'm honoured to know such a talented photographer. Rawk out..."
7th January, 2008
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nis.jensen says:
"Terry - I loves you :-))
What can I say?
Thank you for confiding in me ... Yes
Thank you for showering your world on me ... Yes
Thank you for never having to fave another coffee cup ... Yes
Thank you for NOT censoring your pics too heavily! .. Yes
Thank you for letting me in!
Yes!
Yes!
Yes!"5th January, 2008
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Brooke Pennington says:
"It was an early morning in April, opening day of trout season 2007. There I stood in Yellow Breeches creek in Southwestern Pennsylvania, waders pressed against, nay, suffocating my calves in that strong and frigid current. Again, patiently waiting for that first strike as my hook-pierced salmon egg floated aimlessly downstream waiting to tease the senses of some unsuspecting rainbow.
The stench of beer ladened middle aged sportsmen and stale pipe tobacco was ripe in the air as the excitement began to build for the man who could claim the first victory of the season.
Silence, anticipation, the magic of it all!
Only to be interrupted by the old seasoned pro on my right asking me if I had a light as he twitched an eager grin. Being the non-smoker that I am I turned to the lad on my left in the hopes that I might pass a match onto this old chap.
I glance left, ready to open my mouth only to be abruptly cut off by a grinning, pudding-haired Terry saying "Nice rod.... where's your fishing pole?"
It has been love ever since.
Granted this story is total crap but if I had half the creativity in my photos as I do story telling, I would be on par with that silly little photo freak."19th November, 2007
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gaymay says:
"I can't really think of anything much to say about Terry's photos that hasn't been said in the other testimonials. His photos RoCk!! His photos of Grand Rapids make me miss Michigan...and there's nothing I miss about Michigan. His photos keep making me come back for more!! :oD"
13th November, 2007
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~The EPL Project~ says:
"Terry has a great "eye" as to what will make a great photograph. Coupled with both his photography and post processing skills his work is truly amazing.
He also knows how to have fun with his photography. And it shows through in his work."11th November, 2007
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smartee_martee says:
"The ordinary becomes extraordinary...the "everyday" becomes renewed."
5th November, 2007
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doornail243 says:
"Terry is an inspiration to me. He extends himself to the world in a beautiful way, and I am lucky to have discovered him here.
He is incredibly talented, funny, and giving-a rare combination. I heart Terry."21st October, 2007
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fannybunda says:
"Terry is cute, lovable, and a fantastic photographer. That's all obvious. He's also a great friend. Thanks, Terry."
26th September, 2007
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ihveissues says:
"terry, my good friend, your work keeps me inspired, laughing and wanting to get out there and take more pictures. your macro work is fantastic as well as your 'on the down low" shooting. you are not afraid of getting on your knees for a shot!!! (had to put that in) not to mention your famous shots of nikki. cheers my good friend, here's to many more fantastic images!"
23rd September, 2007
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pentax hammer (gary syrba) says:
"Terry has a way of taking the everyday things around us, and viewing them at a fresh angle. Things that we normally take for granted... or things that most of us think are too "normal" to take a photo of... Terry captures these things in a way that turns "everyday things' into "artistic". It seems that every time you check his photostream, you will find new photos that bring a grin to your face.
Terry is also great at commenting on the works of others. He always has kind words, and offers encouragement. You get the feeling that if you ever met the guy in person he would be the type of good guy that gets along well with everybody.
Now after viewing his photostream for a few months I have noticed something slightly unusual about Terry. You get the feeling that a few times a week he stands up in a group meeting for others like him and says "Hello, My name is Terry, and I'm a coffeeaholic.""21st September, 2007
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graphistolage says:
"Always impressive photos !! so much by the detail, diversity, sensitivity and colors... cheers my friend !!"
2nd September, 2007
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pattisunshine says:
"PBT has some of the most innovative photos on Flickr - he is not afraid to get that certain angle that no one else ever thought of, and in terms of lighting and composition, he is one to admire. Add the sharp sense of humor and keen wit displayed in his captions, and you get the whole "Terry" package. Terry is a master, one to watch, for sure! He always has something new and exciting to add to Flickr and he is very supportive in his comments for others. Can you say GURU?"
22nd August, 2007
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iam-dgs says:
"Terry is a puckish, energetic photographer who's caffeinated personality helps me survive the grog of the everyday. If only he lived closer for a coffee house run throughout the city.
He is my eff-tonest rock-star!"10th August, 2007
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Ⓖragsie says:
"I've been Flickr 'friends' with Terry for some time now, and I have wanted to write a testimonial, but I'm not good at these kinds of things.
Terry posts a lot of photos to Flickr, but unlike many 'big posters' I see who just upload everything that comes out of his/her camera, all of Terry's shots are considered and well-photographed. Typically his images are a photoblog of his life; you can always see what's happening in his life right now from his photostream.
He also is generous in his comments which he makes selflessly - I often feel guilty since I don't comment on his to the same extent.
Anyway, like I say I'm not good at these, so I'll leave it there."27th July, 2007
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Fanboy30 says:
"Oh Terry now what will we do with you and your Rockstar ways?
He walks the walk and talks the talk and takes the pictures to prove it. Surrounded by Coffee, Apple Macs and Fag Hags, yet never phased.
Running around 'Grand Rapids' in his orange top and large lens shooting loads all over the place.......oh yes and he is firsty!
Thanks Terry for making a vibrant and entertaining stream that is a pleasure to visit daily.
Your Flickr Friend Matt
x"4th June, 2007
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re-ality says:
"Terry's a hell of a photographer. And he has a great sense of humor. So something must have gone Terry'bly wrong with him. ;-)
Oh and he has that fag hag and a toy and mug fetish - adorable (you choose which). Sometimes I have the impression he's gay."21st March, 2007
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Five Photography says:
"Terry's photos tap you on the shoulder and say, "Hey, look at this." You take a quick look, then you look again. And again. Then you're hooked. Whimsical, soulful, often touching and extremely personal. "Hey, look at this." You'll be glad you did."
30th January, 2007
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Brad Gillette says:
"Not a day goes by that I don't find myself cracking up over Terry's "coffee shots". His photos always brighten my day and keep me questioning his sanity for weeks."
16th January, 2007
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kroo2u says:
"Terry creates photos without pretense or censorship. He never takes himself too seriously and always brings a smile to the viewer with his clever and sometimes campy snaps. His fun and creative takes on day to day living make you keep coming back for more. His more serious studies are gallery worthy works of light and shadow where the substance of reality takes on otherworldly quality."
21st November, 2006
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docksidepress says:
"Terry's portrait shots are always fun and very well done. I find his positive vibe and wacky humor disarming and charming. My first 200 days on Flickr have been memorable - Terry's encouragement, especially early on, were vital to me feeling welcomed and finding a home in the Flickr universe. Thank you Terry!"
18th November, 2006
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Nicholas_T says:
"A noteworthy aspect of Terry's photography is its variety—from portraits to cityscapes to stunningly detailed flower macros to myriad objects in myriad settings. Fresh, interesting, fun, and never predictable, Terry’s photostream is a pleasure a peruse; I’m always eager to see his latest uploads. His black-and-white photography is among the best I’ve seen."
30th August, 2006
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Pulseman says:
"Terry has taken a step in the direction of taking some of the best pictures around on flickr.
If he wasn't on here we wouldn't be able to see some of the greatest works of art that he has taken.
Give up the day job Terry, go professional and keep bringing pleasure to my eyes!"21st August, 2006
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chad™ says:
"Terry is a real mans man, or a daddy's boy, but either way he is a joy to be around and a constant distraction at work. That and his photography is spiffy as well."
2nd July, 2006
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purpletwinkie says:
"Terry is a Queen in a Princess' body. That's why we love him. :)"
26th February, 2006
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duanemoodydotcom says:
"I have to say, out of all bloggers/flickr people I follow, Terry is probably one of the only people that really captures his own life through photography. I really enjoy his daily posts and the accompanying photo; it is a diary of life, and I feel privy to the ride."
2nd January, 2006
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jeffadair says:
"Terry has an incredible eye for composition and a great touch with effects (when he's not looking for pr0n)."
7th September, 2005























